The Physics of Sailing
Physics Today, February 2008-- In addition to the recreational pleasure sailing affords, it
involves some interesting physics. Sailing starts with the force of the wind on
the sails. Analyzing that interaction yields some results not commonly known to
non-sailors. It turns out, for example, that downwind is not the fastest
direction for sailing. And there are aerodynamic issues. Sails and keels work
by providing "lift" from the fluid passing around them. So optimizing
keel and wing shapes involves wing theory.
The resistance experienced by a moving sailboat includes the effects of waves, eddies, and turbulence in the water, and of the vortices produced in air by the sails. To reduce resistance effectively by optimizing hulls, keels, and sails, one has to understand its various components. Read More
